SANDRA'S HEARTY LENTIL and SWEET POTATO STEW

A delicious and fulfilling stew
to prepare for your loved ones on a fall/winter day...

Yield: 8-10 Servings

Prep: 20 Mins.

Cook: Appx. 1-1/2 hrs.

 

INGREDIENTS

 

2 TB canola oil

1 LB moose meat cut into bite-size pieces (or beef)

2 TB flour

6 cups beef broth

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

4 medium carrots, scrubbed and chopped

1 medium yellow onion, diced

My live rosemary plant
 (this is 1 of 3 that are thriving)...

2 stalks celery, sliced

1 (14.5-oz. can) diced tomatoes with juices

1 cup organic dry red lentils (*See note below)

1 TB chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dry cracked needles, or 1/2 tsp ground)

1 teaspoon of kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 ruby red sweet potato, peeled and chopped into 3/4" cubes

 

METHOD

 

Place a medium heavy-bottom pot over high heat and add the oil; wait until oil shimmers.  Add the meat, garlic powder and onion powder, and cook until meat is browned. Add the flour, cook 1 minute stirring constantly.  Add the broth and bring to a boil while scraping bits from bottom of pot, reduce heat to a low simmer, cover, and cook for 30 minutes.

 

Add the carrots, onion, celery, diced tomatoes, lentils, rosemary, salt and pepper. Bring stew to a boil, reduce heat to a low simmer, cover, and cook for 30 minutes, while stirring at 10-minute intervals.

 

Add the sweet potato cubes, cover, and cook for a final 20 minutes, stirring at 10 minute intervals. Taste for seasonings, and add additional salt/pepper only if needed. ~ Enjoy!

 

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(* Note: Place the 1 cup raw red lentils on a white plate to sort out any unwanted matter before adding them to the pot of stew, just the same as you would do with dry beans before cooking them.)

SANDRA'S KIELBASA CABBAGE SWEET POTATO SOUP over STEAMED RICE

A comforting, hearty and tasty soup filled with brightly contrasting flavors

sure to have you and your family/friends going back for seconds...

Serves: 10 to 12
Prep: 15 Mins.

Cook: 30 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Sauté:

1 lb. Smoked Kielbasa, sliced into 1/4" medallions

2 TB Mazola oil

1/2 white onion, diced

1/2 red bell pepper, diced

2 carrots, scrubbed and sliced into 1/2" rounds

2 stalks celery, diced

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1" thick cubes

1 pkg. shredded cabbage

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 TB Italian herb seasoning blend

1/2 tsp ground/dry mustard

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Broth:

10 cups low-sodium beef broth

1 (14.5 oz can) Italian diced tomatoes, undrained

3 TB ketchup

1 tsp agave

1 TB Worcestershire

1 TB fresh lemon juice

Finish (off heat):

2 TB red wine vinegar

1 TB cold butter

--For Serving:

Pre-cooked hot steamed rice

Garnish:

Fresh basil, julienned

METHOD

Place a large stockpot over medium-high heat with 2 TB oil, add the sausage and sauté until browned.  Add the remaining 'sauté' ingredients in order listed, stirring with each addition, and sauté all for a total of 10 minutes.

Add all the 'broth' ingredients in order listed to the stockpot; stir to combine.

Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes, or until carrots and sweet potatoes are tender.

Remove stockpot from heat, uncover, and add the 'finishing' ingredients, stirring until cold butter is incorporated.

To serve, place hot rice in a mound in the middle of each serving bowl, ladle soup around the rice, and top with freshly julienned basil. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S CHICKEN and FRESH VEGETABLE TACO SOUP

I created this recipe using what I had on hand today, and I tell you...

this Chicken and Fresh Vegetable Taco Soup is quite phenomenal, 

you truly must give this recipe a whirl...

Servings: (4-6)

Prep: 10 Mins.

Cook: 30 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

--1 cup uncooked mini-macaroni, cooked according to pkg directions but only to par-cook for 5 minutes, reserve after draining to add back during 'finishing' below...

Taco Soup:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 medium white onion, chopped

1/4 red bell pepper, chopped

1 ear of fresh corn, kernels removed, reserving corn cob

1 stalk of celery, finely chopped

1/2 bunch fresh asparagus, cut in half and discard rough end sections;

--Cut tips to 1" lengths, then thinly slice stocks - both are cooked separately

1 (14.5-oz. can) stewed tomatoes, undrained (break apart in a small bowl with masher)

1/2 cup bottled chili sauce

2 cup of cooked, roughly shredded chicken

1 tablespoon of taco seasoning

1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic

2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth

3 cups hot water

Finishing:

Asparagus tips, reserved from above

1 green onion, both white and green parts, sliced

2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley

1/2 teaspoon lime juice

Pasta par-cooked, reserved from above

--Optional side:

1 pkg Jiffy Cornbread, prepared according to package directions, with the addition to the batter before baking:

--2 TB shredded cheddar

--2 TB shredded Mozzarella

--1/2 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning.

METHOD

In a medium heavy-bottom pot, par-cook the pasta, as stated above...for 5 minutes, drain; set aside.

Heat olive oil in same pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, sliced-stock-portion-only of asparagus, and corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and cook for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare the cornbread (as stated above), if using.

To continue with the soup, add stewed tomatoes with juices, chili sauce, chicken broth, water, taco seasoning and reserved corn cobs minus their kernels (adds flavor). Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, uncovered. Remove, then toss the corn cobs.

Add all the finishing ingredients, and simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes longer.

Serve soup immediately, with the prepared cornbread. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S ALASKAN SLOW COOKER MOOSE STEW

A soulful and hearty slow-cooker stew you'll be making often, I'm sure!

It's very versatile; you're able to change up the vegetables to use what

you have on-hand in your refrigerator, as did I...

Servings: (10-12)

Prep: 20 Mins.

Slow Cook: 6 Hrs.

INGREDIENTS

In skillet (pre-sear meat - takes about 20 mins.):

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 lbs moose meat, cut into 3/4" cubes (or other meat, i.e., venison, beef...)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 cup hot tap water (to deglaze skillet)

1st addition (add to crock pot along with prepared meat, cover, and cook 3 hours on high):

1 heaping teaspoon beef base (I use Better Than Bouillon)

4 cups hot tap water

2 tablespoon cider vinegar

1 pkg dry onion soup mix

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon worcestershire

1 medium yellow onion, chopped

2nd addition (add to crock pot, cover, and cook 3 additional hours on high):

1 (14.5 oz. can) diced Italian seasoned stewed tomatoes, with juices

3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4" cubes

2 cups baby carrots (or same amount of chopped carrots)

2 stalks celery, chopped

1/2 cup fresh broccoli florets

1 cup fresh, sweet baby snow peas

1 red bell pepper, chopped

2 ears fresh corn, kernels cut from cob

METHOD

Plug in a 6-qt. slow cooker, and preheat, covered, on high.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil. Add meat and sear on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. Sprinkle in flour to coat the meat and let cook for 1 minute. Add the sea salt, pepper and garlic, cook for 1 minute. Add 1/2 cup hot tap water to deglaze the pan, while scraping bits from bottom of skillet. Carefully add contents of skillet to slow cooker, including the "1st addition" ingredients, cover, and let cook on high for 3 hours.

After 3 hours, add the "2nd addition" ingredients, cover, and let cook on high for 3 final hours. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S LIP SMACKIN' ALASKA VENISON TACO SOUP

Nothing says 'comfort' more than this fun and delightful tasting soup
on a blustery winter day
that's guaranteed to bring a smile to your face!

Servings: (6 to 8)

Prep: 10 Mins.

Cook 25 Mins.

INGREDIENTS:

2 slices bacon, cut cross-wise into 1/4" strips

1/4 yellow onion, diced

1/4 red bell pepper, diced

1 fresh jalapeno, seeds and ribs removed, finely diced

1 (14.5 oz can) chili beans, undrained

1 (14.5 oz can) Mexican-style diced tomatoes, undrained

3 tablespoons taco seasoning

3 tablespoons medium Picante sauce (jarred salsa)

1 teaspoon red wine vinegar

2 tablespoons ketchup

1-1/2 to 2 cups water (depending upon your desired consistency)

1 pound left over venison roast, finely diced

Garnish:

Tortilla Strips (our's are from Costco)

Shredded medium cheddar cheese

Roma tomatoes, diced

Sour Cream

METHOD:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the bacon half way. Add onions, peppers, and jalapenos to the skillet; sauté for 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients, (except diced venison and garnish toppings). Bring soup to a slight boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.  Add diced venison, cover, and heat through for about 5 minutes.

To serve, place generous handfuls of crushed tortilla strips in bottom of bowls, ladle taco soup over crushed chips, top each serving with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream.  Place whole tortilla chips in center of dining room table.  When eating, scoop up the soup using whole tortilla strips (along with a spoon if you wish) ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S 30-MINUTE CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP with CHEDDAR CORNBREAD

An all-time favorite...a quick and easy comfort meal that's oh so healthy for you!

Be sure to favorite/print out this recipe as I'm sure you'll want to prepare this
each and every time you find you have leftover chicken and/or turkey on hand...

Servings: (6)

Prep/Cook: 30 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Soup:

1/2 tablespoon light olive

2 cups diced celery

1 cup diced carrots

Pinch of red pepper flakes

1/4 cup dry minced onion

1 teaspoon dried basil

2 tablespoons dried parsley, divided (see below)

1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic

1/2 teaspoon granulated onion
1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper

1/4 teaspoon ground poultry seasoning

1/8 teaspoon ground turmeric

6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1/2 tablespoon white wine vinegar

1/2 tablespoon worcestershire

3 precooked, boned, skinned chicken thighs, roughly shredded, then cut into bite-size pieces

2 green onions, cut into 1/4" slices (both white and green parts)

1 (reserved) tablespoon dried parsley

1/4 cup frozen sweet peas

Noodles: Prepared and stored separately (See 'Leftover Tip' below)

--1 (8-oz pkg) No-Yolk Broad-Egg Noodles, prepared according to pkg directions (10-12 mins. cooking time)

Cheddar Cornbread (15-20 minutes baking time):

1 egg

1/3 cup milk

--1 (8.5-oz. pkg) dry Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix

1/4 cup shredded medium cheddar cheese

METHOD

Preheat oven to 400 degrees, and set aside a sprayed, square 7" baking dish.  Place a separate medium pot on stove with 4 quarts water over high heat for water to boil for noodles.

First, begin preparing soup by heating oil in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium high heat.  Add and sauté celery, carrots, dry minced onion, basil and 1 tablespoon dried parsley, granulated garlic and onion, lemon pepper, poultry seasoning, and turmeric for 5 minutes.  Add chicken broth, white wine vinegar, and worcestershire; stir to combine.  Bring soup to boil, then reduce heat to medium low to simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare noodles according to package directions.

Also, begin preparing cornbread batter in a small bowl by beating an egg with 1/3 cup milk, add and mix in with a fork the dry corn muffin mix, and fold in shredded cheddar cheese.  Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake, uncovered, in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes.

At this point, finish soup by adding the chicken, green onions, remaining 1 tablespoon dried parsley, and frozen peas. Cook for 2 minutes, then turn off heat.

Drain noodles in a colander at end of cooking time.

Remove cornbread at end of baking time, and cut into 6 squares.

To serve, place 3/4 cups of prepared noodles into each bowl and ladle soup over top. Place filled soup bowls onto separate dinner plates, each with squares of cheddar cornbread slathered with butter ;) alongside. ~ Enjoy!

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Leftover Tip: I store cooked noodles separately in the refrigerator in ziploc bag so as to maintain their integrity, with the actual soup separately, covered, in an air-tight container.

SANDRA'S WHOLESOME PINTO BEAN AND HAM SOUP

The perfect hot bean and vegetable soup
on a snowy Alaska winter night...

Servings: (8 to 10)

Prep: 10 mins. |

Cook: Appx. 2 hrs.

INGREDIENTS

-1 (16 oz. pkg.) dried pinto beans

-6 cups water

-6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

-1 tablespoon cider vinegar

-2 heaping teaspoons brown sugar

-2 cups cooked ham, cubed

--(or 2 *smoked ham hocks, or *ham bone with meat on it, or a ring of smoked sausage)

-1 lg. carrot, scrubbed, and chopped

-2 ribs celery, chopped

-½ onion, diced

-1 russet potato (or sweet potato), peeled and chopped

-1 garlic clove, minced

-1 bay leaf

-1/8 teaspoon each: dried oregano, basil, and thyme

-1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

--(I do not add any salt due to the saltiness of the ham)

-Dash of hot sauce

METHOD

Spread the dried pinto beans out on a baking sheet and pick through them; toss any unwanted matter, then rinse beans in a colander. In a large dutch oven (or heavy-bottom soup pot), bring pinto beans and water to a boil. Cover, and reduce heat to simmer and par cook for 1 hour. 

Drain beans in colander, and return to dutch oven. Add broth, cider vinegar and brown sugar, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes; stirring occasionally. 

Add remaining ingredients, cover, and simmer for 30 additional minutes, until vegetables and beans are tender. 

Remove bay leaf, and toss. Taste for seasoning, and add more broth or water if a thinner consistency is desired.

Serve with hot wheat rolls or crusty slices of French bread. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

*Tip: If using smoked ham hocks or ham bone with meat on it, add at the beginning of the bean cooking process, and remove after 1 hour to pull meat from hocks or bone, cube (when draining beans), and return to pot when adding vegetables.

SANDRA’S 30-MINUTE POTATO ‘N BACON CHOWDER

A welcoming hot chowder

on a blustery winter day that takes

minimal time to prepare...

Servings: (4)

Prep: 5 Mins.

Cook: 30 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

4 strips center-cut bacon, cut into ½” wide slices

½ yellow onion, chopped

½ red bell pepper, chopped

2 ribs celery, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

¼ cup all-purpose flour

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

3 russet potatoes, peeled, and cut into ½” cubes

1 teaspoon old bay seasoning

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon white pepper

½ cup condensed milk (not sweetened)

--Fresh sprigs of parsley for garnish (optional)

METHOD

Brown bacon until crispy in a medium heavy-bottom saucepan over medium-high heat.  Retain drippings, and remove bacon to drain on paper towel.

To the saucepan drippings, add the onion, bell pepper, and celery.  Saute until onions are translucent.  Add garlic; saute for 30 seconds. Add flour, and stir to fully incorporate while cooking for 1 minute.

Add chicken broth to saucepan; stirring to incorporate.  Add potatoes, old bay seasoning, basil, and pepper.  Bring to boil, and reduce to low to simmer for 20 minutes, while occasionally stirring, just until potatoes are tender.

Add drained bacon and milk to chowder; stirring to combine.  Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, just until thoroughly heated (do not boil).

Ladle chowder into 4 serving bowls and garnish with sprigs of parsley. ~ Enjoy!

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Tip:  I served the delicious hot chowder with warm French bread slices, and a nice garden salad drizzled with vinaigrette.

SANDRA’S ALASKA WINTERTIME STEW

An excellent all-around

comforting stew you are bound to make

over and over again...

Servings: (8 to 10)

Prep: 15 Mins.

Cook: 30 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

1.5 lbs. extra-lean burger (I used moose)

--(Or, use beef, elk, caribou, buffalo, turkey, etc., if you wish)

½ teaspoon sea salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 yellow onion, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

½ cup celery, sliced

½ cup carrots, sliced

1 jalapeno, stem, ribs, and seeds removed, then finely chopped

--(Retain ribs and seeds if you’d like a spicier stew)

1 (14.5 oz. can) diced tomatoes, with juice

1 (14.5 oz. can) chili beans, with juice

1 (6 oz. can) tomato paste

6 cups low-sodium beef broth (6 cups if you prefer more broth)

1 tablespoon sherry

1 tablespoon worcestershire

1 whole bay leaf

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon dried oregano

¾ cup uncooked white fiber mini-penne pasta (I used Barilla)

1 handful fresh parsley, roughly chopped; plus more for garnish

METHOD

In large pot, begin browning the burger over medium-high heat, and sprinkle with sea salt and ground pepper.  When burger is nearly finished browning, add garlic, onion, bell pepper, celery, carrots, and jalapeno.  Saute until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the diced tomatoes and chili beans with juices, tomato paste, broth, sherry worcestershire, bay leaf, basil, and oregano, then bring to boil.  Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.

Add mini-penne pasta, and continue simmering for an additional 15 minutes.

Remove from heat, toss bay leaf, and add parsley; stirring to combine.  

Ladle stew into bowls, and garnish with remaining parsley. ~ Enjoy!

This stew is fabulous when served with the following as a side (Click on title for recipe):

Sandra's Premium Cornbread Muffins
Recipe

SANDRA’S SPRINGTIME BACON RED POTATO and KALE SOUP

Unbelievably satisfying and wholesome soup;
perfect for a sunny springtime day...

Servings: (6)

Prep: 10 Mins.

Cook: 30 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

6 slices of bacon, cut crosswise into ½” wide strips

½ yellow onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

5 medium red potatoes, scrubbed and chopped

1 bunch of kale (stems removed), and torn into small pieces

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon smoky paprika

1 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan

2 teaspoons dried parsley

--Prepared warm and crusty garlic bread

METHOD

In a dutch oven over a medium heat, brown the bacon, and then remove to a plate. Retain drippings in pot, and add onions and saute while scraping bits from bottom. After about three minutes, add the garlic and red pepper flakes and saute for 30 seconds.  

Add the chicken broth, potatoes, oregano, and raise the heat to bring soup to a gentle boil.  Add the heavy cream and Parmesan, and stir to combine, then cover pot.  

When potatoes are tender, after about 15 minutes, reduce heat and add the bacon, kale, and parsley; stirring to incorporate.  Check for consistency; adding more broth or heavy cream if need be at this point. Remove from heat after three minutes.  

Serve in soup in bowls, with warm and crusty garlic bread alongside. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tip:  I like to either tear or cut my kale into rather small pieces when adding this delicious veggie to soups and stews (it's a "texture thing," I guess).

SANDRA’S SLOW-COOKER VENISON MEATBALL and VEGETABLE STOUP

Such a delightful aroma waiting for this
meal, but oh so worth it
(Its consistency is a cross between
a soup and stew = Stoup! ;)...
 

Servings: (8 to 10)

Prep: 20 Mins.

Slow-Cooker: 4 Hrs. Total (2 Hrs. on High  +2 Hrs. on Low)

INGREDIENTS (I used all organic vegetables, and Martie's Organic Magic Mexican Seasoning)

Meatballs (can be made ahead of time and stored in freezer or refrigerator):

1 lb. extra-lean venison burger, rolled into 1” meatballs (or moose, buffalo, etc.)

1 egg, slightly beaten

2 tablespoons milk

1/2 cup homemade seasoned breadcrumbs

1 garlic clove, finely minced

3 tablespoons onion, finely minced

½ teaspoon dry mustard

½ teaspoon celery seeds

½ teaspoon Martie’s Magic Mexican Seasoning

Stoup:

4 medium red potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1” cubes

2 carrots, scrubbed and chopped into ½” slices

3 leaks, cut in half lengthwise, washed, and sliced into 1/2 “ pieces

--(tender white and light green parts only)

2 ribs celery, chopped into ½” slices

¼ cup whole sweet peas, strings removed, and cut in half

1 small zucchini, cut into ½” slices

1 celery root, peeled, and cut into 1” cubes

1 (14.5 oz. can) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (7 oz. can) tomato sauce

3 cups low-sodium beef broth

2 tablespoons dried minced onion

1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

1-1/2 teaspoons Martie’s Magic Mexican Seasoning

Garnish:

1 tomato, chopped

1 avocado, chopped

Fresh sprigs of parsley

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 350.  Line a baking sheet with foil, and spray with olive oil, and set aside.

In a medium bowl, mix together the meatball ingredients. Roll into 1” balls (I do so using a small scoop to ensure the meatballs are uniform in size). Place on prepared baking sheet, and par-bake for 15 minutes.

 

Meanwhile, layer the vegetables in a, cold, 5-qt. slow-cooker in order listed.  When the meatballs are par-baked, add them to the slow-cooker.  In a medium bowl, combine the remaining stoup ingredients, and pour over meatball mixture.  

Cover, and cook on high for 2 hours, then reduce to low for 2 hours, or until the vegetables are tender. 

To serve, ladle stoup into bowls, and garnish with fresh tomatoes, avocados, and a sprig of parsley. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA’S WILD ALASKA KING SALMON SMOKY KIELBASA STEW

A delightful salmon stew,
and the kielbasa adds
a bit of smoky flavor making this
absolutely scrumptious...

Servings: (4 to 6) 

Prep: 5 Mins. |

Cook 40 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

½ lb. (1/2 ring) smoked kielbasa, sliced

½ yellow onion, chopped

1 stock of celery, sliced

4 unpeeled red potatoes, scrubbed and chopped into ½” cubes

3 cloves of garlic, finely minced

1 (14 oz. can) Italian stewed tomatoes, undrained, with tomatoes broken apart

½ cup tomato sauce

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons cooking sherry

2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 whole bay leaves

1 teaspoon Martie’s Magic Organic Italian Seasoning

1 lb. boneless wild Alaska king salmon fillet, skinned and cut into 1” cubes

--Parsley sprigs for garnish

METHOD

Martie's Magic
Italian Seasoning
(Organic)

In a heavy-bottom saucepan, sear the kielbasa over medium-high heat, just until golden brown.  Add the onion, celery, potatoes, and garlic and saute for 5 minutes.  Add all the remaining ingredients, except the salmon.  Bring to boil, cover, reduce heat to medium, and let simmer for 20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.  Add the salmon, folding gently to combine (so as not to break apart salmon pieces), cover, and continue to simmer for 5 minutes, just until salmon flakes easily with a fork.  Toss bay leaves.  Serve in bowls garnished with parsley sprigs, along with a salad and your favorite choice of warm crusty bread. – Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tip:  It’s important to cut your potatoes into smaller ½” cubes and the salmon into 1” cubes so they both properly cook timing-wise per this recipe.

STEVE’S INCREDIBLE WILD ALASKA SEAFOOD STEW

It’s a must to serve this extraordinary seafood stew
with a loaf of warm and crusty garlic bread
for sopping up its amazing broth...

[This recipe and photo were featured 
@ http://paper.li/denali_ak/alaskans-10#!travel]

Servings: (10 to 12)

Prep: 10 Mins. | Stew: 45 Mins.

A unique seafood stew with wild Alaska shrimp, scallops, clams, and halibut.  You can change this recipe up in so many ways by also using or substituting the ingredients below with mussels, crab, white and/or red king salmon, sockeye, cod, and so on.

INGREDIENTS

1-1/2 cubes unsalted butter

2 yellow onions, chopped

3 large garlic cloves, minced

2 handfuls fresh flat-leaf Italian parsley, roughly chopped

2 (14.5 oz. cans) Italian stewed tomatoes, undrained-break-up further using a potato masher

2 (14.5 oz. cans) low-sodium chicken broth

3 organic bay leaves

1 tablespoon organic dried basil

¾ teaspoon organic dried thyme

¾ teaspoon organic dried oregano

1 tablespoon old bay seasoning

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 cups quality white wine:

--(We used Wollombi Pass South Eastern Australia Semillon Chardonnay 2011)

1-1/2 lbs. fresh shrimp/prawns, peeled and deveined

1-1/2 lbs. fresh bay scallops (if using sea scallops, cut into quarters)

18-live steamer clams

1-1/2 lbs. fresh halibut fillets, cut into 1" cubes

Fine-grained sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Serve with:

-- A loaf of prepared warm and crusty garlic bread

METHOD

In a large heavy-bottom stockpot, melt butter over medium-low heat, add onions and cook while stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the garlic and parsley, and cook for 30 seconds longer.  Add tomatoes, chicken broth, bay leaves, basil, thyme, oregano, old bay seasoning, lemon juice, and wine; gently fold to combine.  Cover stockpot, and gently simmer for 30 minutes. Stir in the shrimp, scallops, clams, and halibut; bring to a gentle boil, and immediately lower heat.  Cover stockpot and simmer 5 to 7 minutes, just until clams open. Toss bay leaves.  Ladle stew into bowls, and serve with warm and crusty garlic bread slices. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tip:  It’s IMPERATIVE after the cooking process to toss any unopened clams (or mussels)!

SANDRA’S SOUTH-OF-THE-BORDER CHICKEN STEW

A quick, hearty, and delicious stew.

Servings: (4)
Prep: 10 Mins. | 

Cook: 30 Mins.

Posted: By Sandra

INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup chopped celery

1 cup diced onions

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 large russet potato, peeled, and cut into ½” cubes

3 cups cooked chicken

1 (1.25 oz. pkg.) taco seasoning, or Sandra’s Taco Seasoning Blend

1 (14.5 oz. can) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 cup whole-kernel frozen corn

1 (4 oz. can) diced green chilies, drained (mild, or medium spiciness)

1 (4 oz. can) sliced olives, drained

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 teaspoon organic dried oregano

¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

METHOD

Garnish options:
Sour Cream
and Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Click here for the recipe:
 Sandra's Premium Cornbread Muffins

Heat a medium soup pot with olive oil over medium-high heat, and add the celery and onion, and saute until the onions are translucent.  Add the garlic and saute for 30 seconds.  Add the remaining ingredients and bring to boil; reduce heat, and simmer, covered, for 25 minutes, while stirring occasionally (being careful not to break up chicken pieces).  Enjoy!



SANDRA’S TASTY RED POTATO BACON and FRESH VEGETABLE SOUP



I have a produce order arriving today, 
so I created this wonderful soup 
with ingredients on hand - 
It's spectacular - I hope you try it...

Servings: (6)
Prep: 5 Mins. |
Cook: 20 to 25 Mins.

Posted by Sandra

INGREDIENTS:

4 slices smoky bacon, cut into 1” slices
5 red potatoes, scrubbed and cut into ½” cubes
1 Vidalia onion, roughly chopped
1 carrot, scrubbed and chopped
1 red bell pepper, roughly chopped
1 small jalapeno, de-seeded and deribbed, and finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
¼ teaspoon Creole seasoning (or Cajun)
4 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 (14 oz. jar) prepared pizza sauce [or 1-2/3 cup of my homemade recipe here]
1 teaspoon dried sweet basil
1 bunch fresh broccoli florets, cut in half

METHOD:

Heat a heavy-bottom pot over medium-high heat, and brown the bacon. Remove bacon pieces and drain on a paper towel lined plate, while reserving 2 tablespoons drippings in pot. Add all the remaining ingredients, except browned bacon and broccoli, cover, and bring to boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Add the bacon and broccoli florets, and re-cover, and continue to simmer for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, just until potatoes are tender – Enjoy.


------------------------


Tip: I like to serve this hearty soup with a nice garden salad and/or warm crispy bread on the side ;)

SANDRA’S SPRINGTIME BACON and FRESH VEGETABLE CHOWDER

I came up with this recipe from 
an assortment of fresh vegetables 
and herbs I had on hand, 
as my Full Circle order 
arrived this afternoon; 
hence the need to make room
 in the refrigerator...(This chowder is fab!)

Servings:  (4 to 6)

Prep: 5 Mins. |
Cook 25 Mins.

Posted by Sandra

INGREDIENTS

***First set of ingredients:

4 strips of bacon, cut into ½” slices
3 tablespoons flour
½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 teaspoon old bay seasoning
1 whole bay leaf
1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
4 russet potatoes, peeled and cut into ½ in cubes
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ onion, chopped
1 carrot, scrubbed and chopped
1 rib celery, chopped
½ red bell pepper, chopped

***Second set of ingredients:

1 small zucchini, chopped
1 cup broccoli florets, cut smaller
3 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)

***Third set ingredients:

1-1/2 cups 2-percent milk

--Warm and crispy bread (optional)

METHOD

Heat a medium heavy-bottom pot to medium-high heat; add the bacon, and brown, until crisp.  Add the flour, and saute for 1 minute (for the flour flavor to cook out).  Add the seasonings, and chicken broth, while scraping bits from bottom.  Add remaining first set of ingredients, bring to boil, cover, and reduce heat to low to simmer for 15 minutes.

Add the second set of ingredients, stirring to combine, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Add milk, stir for 1 minute, and remove from heat; tossing bay leaf.  Ladle into chowder bowls, along with a side of warm and crispy bread. – Enjoy!

SANDRA’S HEARTY N' HEALTHY MOOSE GARDEN STEW

An incredible stew and oh so comforting on
this slightly chilly autumn day
in Juneau, Alaska...

Servings: (6)

Prep:  10 Mins. |
Stew: 2 Hrs. 15 Mins.

Posted by Sandra 

INGREDIENTS

***Meat and spices:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb. moose meat, trimmed and cut into ½” cubes (or venison, or beef)
1 garlic clove, minced
3 cups low-sodium beef stock
2 cups hot water
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1  organic bay leaf
½ teaspoon organic dried basil
½ teaspoon organic dried oregano
3 teaspoons worcestershire

***Veggies:

1 (15 oz. can) diced fire-roasted tomatoes, with juices
2 ribs celery, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
½ yellow onion, chopped
½ red bell pepper, chopped
1 large russet potato, peeled and chopped
1 jalapeno, seeded and ribs removed, and very finely chopped (retain seeds/ribs for spicier stew)

***More Veggies, and Slurry:

4 crimini mushrooms, thickly sliced
1 unpeeled zucchini, quartered lengthwise and chopped
2 tablespoons cornstarch
4 tablespoons sherry

METHOD

Heat a 6 qt.-saucepot with olive oil over medium-high heat.  Add the moose meat and cook until browned, stirring often.  Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.  Add the remaining meat/spice ingredients, and bring to boil.  Cover, and reduce to low and let simmer for 1 hr. and 30 minutes. 

Add the first set of veggies to the saucepot, and bring to boil.  Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20 minutes.

Add the additional set of veggies to pot.  Whisk the cornstarch and sherry together in a small bowl until smooth, then slowly add to stew while stirring, and bring to boil.  Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for a 10 final minutes.  Remove from heat, toss bay leaf, and serve. – Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tip:  I prefer to serve this Hearty N Healthy Garden Moose Stew with warm cornbread muffins, biscuits, rolls, or focaccia bread (Click on respective links for each recipe).